Putin: Hungary's accession to European Union must not affect its relations with Russia

"Russia and Hungary must make sure that the positive process of Europe's expansion does not affect the relations between the two countries," said the Russian leader at the opening of negotiations with Hungarian Prime Minister Peter Medgyessy. The negotiations were held on Saturday in St. Petersburg.

According to Mr. Putin, Moscow is pleased with the fact that Hungary will soon become a member of the European Union. "On the other hand, we are concerned that the restrictions in relations between the EU and Russia will apply to Hungary, as well," the Russian President underlined.

He said that the meetings between the two leaders are becoming regular. In Mr. Putin's opinion, it has a positive influence on the results of cooperation between ministries, departments and business communities of the two countries.